Ouilmette Foundation

The Ouilmette Foundation is an independent nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization based in Wilmette, Illinois, with the mission of supporting special projects and programs in partnership with the Wilmette Park District. Its Employer Identification Number (EIN) is 36-3233128.

Mission and Activities

The foundation raises funds for various initiatives, primarily through community events. These events include the WOW Swim Race, the Back the Bowl Bash, and the Wilmette Beach Bash, which provide opportunities for community engagement while supporting local parks. Since 2014, the Ouilmette Foundation has raised over $400,000 to support community and park projects[3].

History and Focus

The foundation was initially formed to address the deteriorating condition of the Wallace Bowl in Gillson Park back in 1982. Today, it continues to play a crucial role in fundraising for the restoration and maintenance of this historic outdoor amphitheater, which hosts various events such as the Sounds of Summer concert series and Independence Day festivities[1].

Current Initiatives

A recent focus for the Ouilmette Foundation has been the "Back the Bowl" campaign aimed at restoring the Wallace Bowl, a project estimated to cost more than $3 million. The foundation plans to continue fundraising efforts, including seeking large-scale donors and organizing events for 2025[1][3].

[1] https://www.therecordnorthshore.org/2024/09/17/wallace-bowl-restoration-needs-another-level-of-funding-officials-say/ [2] https://www.causeiq.com/organizations/ouilmette-foundation,363233128/ [3] https://ouilmettefoundation.org [4] https://www.guidestar.org/profile/36-3233128 [5] https://ouilmettefoundation.org/events/the-2023-beach-bash/